Pesto Minestrone

Minestrone is probably known worldwide. Every region and every cook in italy has their own version and personal view about minestrone. The word grew out of "minestra" which means a broth, and the one thing all minestrones tend to have in common is that they are hearty vegetable soups. The single ingredient most frequently used is beans. Short pasta or rice may also be added. The best known version comes from milan. This version has plenty of vegetables and the pesto lends a slightly nutty flavour to the soup. This soup is best served just as it is completed. You can make the pesto sauce ahead, however add it while finishing the soup.